William Fox-Pitt remains in the top position after the dressage stage finishes (Credit: BEF/Jon Stroud Media)

Britain has proved their strong eventing abilities with William Fox-Pitt riding Christopher Stone’s Chilli Morning, remaining in the lead heading into tomorrow’s cross-country phase.

But today was Pippa Funnell and Kitty King’s turn to take to the dressage arena today as part of the eventing competition, after the British team were sitting in third place on Saturday. Pippa was looking to perform a good test with her British bred Billy The Biz, owned by the late Carol Toliver, which they did. The pair produced lovely movements and showed an expressive trot awarding them 43.9 penalty points.

“I was really, really pleased with his [Billy The Biz] performance. There were a few little bits here and there, but if I’m honest I think I’m being greedy, if I think of where he came from three years ago I’m thrilled,” says Pippa.

Last to go for Team GB eventing was Kitty King riding Ceylor L A N, who made a stunning entrance, being awarded eights across the board for their halt. Although, the test had some stand out moments, there were some minor errors leading to a score of 46.8 penalties.

Kitty King riding Ceylor L A N on the second dressage day for the eventing competitors (Credit: BEF/Jon Stroud Media)

Kitty said afterwards; “It was slightly disappointing because he’s capable of a lot better; he did some good work but he just made a couple of uncharacteristic mistakes. One of his highlights is usually his medium trot, but it’s a massive atmosphere for the horse and he’s only nine. Today wasn’t quite what we’d hoped for but hopefully we’ll pull some back tomorrow,” says Kitty.

After today’s results, Great Britain is lying in fourth position in the team standings before heading into tomorrow’s cross-country, with the top three spots currently occupied by Germany, France and Australia.

Individual placings for the Team GB athletes after this first phase of the competition; William Fox-Pitt (1), Pippa Funnell (16), Kitty King (26) and Gemma Tattersall (32).

Monday 8 August times for the British riders as they set off cross-country are as follows: